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A sewing machine is handy, but a seasoned seamstress should know her way around a sewing needle and thread. There are three hand stitches that will get you through just about any basic task -- the slip stitch, the backstitch, and the running stitch -- and knowing how to apply them allows you to mend a seam, hem a garment, or fasten a button with ease. Here are a few basic ideas to practice and master each one.

Use our spooky templates for a frightfully simple way to create crafts and decorations for Halloween.

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Stargazers -- or anyone looking to give her room lighting a dreamier dimension -- will love this easy decorating trick. All you need is a few crafting tools and an inexpensive white lampshade. Flick on the switch come nightfall and enjoy the customized twinkle that gleams through.